Behind the wheel of the new Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV: greater range, refinement and safety

Following the first generation of the model, launched in 2013, comes the new edition of the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, a SUV that is much more refined and versatile, combining the power of three motors, two of them electric alongside a 2.4-litre petrol engine, which generate a total output of 306 CV. It has a lithium-ion battery capable of powering the electric motors and providing a range of up to 85 km without starting the combustion engine, and up to 834 km with both combined.

The new Outlander PHEV offers eye-catching styling with nods to the classic Montero off-roader, with a wide front grille, robust bumpers and adaptive Full LED lighting.

It features 18- or 20-inch alloy wheels, depending on the trim level, and the rear displays a hexagonal design. It is offered in 12 different colours and in four trim levels (Motion, Kaiteki, Kaiteki+ and FirstEdition).

Good finish

The interior has been crafted with care and high-quality materials; it features a digital instrument panel, large infotainment screen, heated and ventilated seats, and a massage function with three colour options and four upholstery options.

The seats for rear passengers also include independent heating and taller backrests with the option to fold down in a 40:20:40 configuration. It offers a large panoramic sunroof: 928 mm long and 702 mm wide, while the boot, with a large tailgate, has a capacity of 495 litres, which can rise to 803 litres.

It incorporates cutting-edge technology, with high-definition screens, wireless smartphone mirroring and voice control, paired with a Dynamic Sound system, developed with Yamaha, offering options with 8 or 12 speakers. The customisable digital display is 12.3″ and the additional touchscreen is the same size, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. It also features a 15W wireless charging system for mobile devices.

Powerful engines

The new Outlander PHEV combines a 2.4-litre MIVEC DOHC 16-valve petrol engine with two electric motors, a front one of 85 kW (116 CV) and a rear one of 100 kW (136 CV). This configuration delivers up to 302 CV of combined power, an increase of more than 40% over the previous generation. It promises a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 7.9 seconds, with a top speed limited to 170 km/h.

The lithium-ion battery has increased its capacity to 22.7 kWh, allowing a range of up to 85 km in fully electric mode WLTP. Combined with the combustion engine, the total range reaches 834 km. Additionally, its new liquid cooling system improves battery efficiency.

It offers three driving modes: EV mode, which uses only the electric motors; series hybrid mode, where the petrol engine acts as a generator to power the electric motors; and parallel hybrid mode, in which the combustion engine works together with the electric motors to improve performance on long journeys.

It has four different settings for more efficient energy management: Normal, which automatically adjusts the use of electricity and petrol; EV, for fully electric driving; Save, which prioritises battery conservation; and Charge, which recharges the battery while driving. To provide greater range, it features a heat pump cooling system that reduces energy consumption.

For charging, it supports CHAdeMO fast charging, commonly used in Japan but practically obsolete in Europe, with which 80% charge can be reached in approximately 32 minutes. If a 3.5 kW Schuko AC charger is used, a full charge takes around 6.5 hours. It also has power outlets to run electrical devices of up to 1,500 W in the centre console and the boot.

Good handling on track and road

It promises greater torsional rigidity and an optimised multi-link suspension, with lightweight aluminium components that reduce weight, as well as a electric power steering with dual pinion and combines the S-AWC all-wheel-drive system (Super All Wheel Control) with seven driving modes adjustable to terrain conditions.

It also includes a hill descent control system, which, together with its ground clearance of 199 mm and approach and departure angles of 18.7° and 22.5° respectively, makes off-road driving very capable.

To increase safety and comfort, it features sensors, radars and cameras to provide a 360° view of the surroundings, as well as a front collision mitigation system that detects pedestrians and cyclists, rear emergency braking, a blind spot warning system, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition and driver monitoring, and it has a trailer stability assist system, which corrects sway by applying the brakes or reducing engine power.

Performance is good, with brilliant acceleration, strong recovery and a smooth blend of electric and combustion motors that makes it suitable for all kinds of journeys.

With firm but not uncomfortable suspension, it tackles winding roads at lively pace with confidence and assurance, whether on deteriorated tracks or surfaces with low grip, since the all-wheel-drive system keeps the vehicle moving with composure.

Prices and accessories

Design, protection and functionality packs are available to personalise the new Outlander PHEV. The Trail pack includes matt black details. 18- or 20-inch wheels, towbar, roof bars and a sporty rear spoiler are also offered. Inside, illuminated sill protectors, boot organisers and a coat hook for hanging garments can be added.

It includes a 5-year or 100,000 km warranty, plus an additional three years of extended conditional coverage, up to 8 years or 160,000 km. There is also an 8-year or 160,000 km warranty for the battery and 8 years of roadside assistance, with the last three years subject to the same conditions as the extended warranty.

The brand offers a RRP with financing and a 4,000-euro commercial discount, so the range starts at 44,300 euros for the Motion version. The Kaiteki costs 49,900 euros; Kaiteki+ costs 52,500 euros and the First Edition reaches 54,500 euros.

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